Edible halophytes of the Mediterranean basin: Potential candidates for novel food products. (April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Petropoulos, S.A.; Karkanis, A.; Martins, N.; Ferreira, I.C.F.R.
• Is Part Of: Trends in food science & technology. Volume 74(2018)
• Page Start: 69
• Page End: 84
• Publication Date: 2018-04
• Subjects: Edible greens -- Halophytic species -- Mediterranean diet -- Native plants -- Underutilized species -- Wild greens; Food industry and trade -- Periodicals; Food -- Biotechnology -- Periodicals; 664.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2018.02.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0924-2244

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Recent trends in the food science industry and consumers' preferences for diversified diets suggest the consumption of wild greens not only as diet complements but also as healthy and functional foods for targeted conditions, rendering its commercial cultivation of major importance in order to avoid irrational gathering and genetic erosion threats. The Mediterranean basin abounds in wild edible species which have been used for food and medicinal purposes by human throughout the centuries. Many of these species can be found near coastal areas and usually grow under saline conditions, while others can adapt in various harsh conditions including high salinity. Scope and approach: The aim of this review focuses on listing and describing the most important halophyte species that traditionally have been gathered by rural communities of the Mediterranean basin, while special interest will be given on their chemical composition and health promoting components. Cases of commercially cultivated halophytes will be also presented to highlight their potential as alternative cash crops, while results from in vitro and in vivo health effects will be presented. Key findings and conclusions: The recent literature has provided useful information regarding the potential of wild halophytes as promising ingredients in functional food products and/or as sources of bioactive compounds. However, further research is needed regarding the chemical characterization of these species under commercial cultivation practices, while further clinical and model trials have to be conducted to assess their long term bioactivity and elucidate potential toxic effects and regulations of safe consumption. Highlights: Halophyte species may contribute to diverse diets and functional foods production. The most important edible halophytes of the Mediterranean basin were described. Most of the species showed significant bioactivity and beneficial health effects. The food industry has to exploit these species to fulfill consumers' demands.